Focusing and Creating Calm

This class combines the simple practice of focusing with creative expression, such as painting, collage, drawing, and writing. Focusing is the process of noticing and attending to one's internal experience, also known as one's felt sense. Focusing is similar to mindfulness in that it is a practice of being in the here and now without trying to change our experience. We learn to be friendly to and curious about our experience. A brief focusing exercise at the beginning of each class will lead to individual creative expression. Participants will have the opportunity to paint, draw, sculpt, and collage. Focusing offers us the possibility of being with all of our experience and encourages us to trust our innate inner wisdom while invoking our creativity to help us be present with ourselves. No art or meditation experience necessary to participate. A $10 materials fee is included in registration.